After 7 Years And $300M, Studio Museum In Harlem Sets An Opening Date

HARLEM, NY — After seven years of anticipation and $300 million in capital funds, the Studio Museum in Harlem has set an opening date.

The museum, which focuses on work made by artists of African descent, will open the doors to its brand-new, 82,000-square-foot home on Saturday, Nov. 15, with a community celebration activating the new seven-floor space.

The museum's space has been reimagined with state-of-the-art galleries, multi-use education spaces, a rooftop terrace, and a cafe by local family-owned restaurant Settepani.

"As our historic homecoming approaches, I am reflecting on the transformative vision of the artists, supporters, and community members who have helped us shape this pivotal moment in our legacy," Thelma Golden, the director of the museum and the chief curator, said.

The building, designed by Adjaye Associates, takes its visual language from Harlem's brownstone stoops, windows, and the sweeping open spaces of Harlem's churches, museum officials said.

"Our breathtaking new building is an invaluable space and a tribute to the Museum’s mission and the vitality of artists of African descent. I am thrilled to welcome everyone back to a reimagined Studio Museum, rooted in Harlem and resonating far beyond," Golden said.

The reopening day will include free admission, art-making workshops, performances, and activities for all ages. The following day, the museum will relaunch its weekly Studio Sundays, offering free, family-friendly programming, museum officials said.

The inaugural exhibitions include an exhibition on artist Tom Lloyd, whose work launched the museum’s first exhibition in 1968, as well as a rotating installation from the museum’s permanent collection.

Site-specific commissions by artists Camille Norment and Christopher Myers will also debut, alongside iconic works like David Hammons’ "Untitled" flag combining the Pan-African colors with the flag of the United States, and Glenn Ligon’s "Give Us a Poem," which translates a poem by Muhammad Ali into flashing neon.

Admission will be a suggested $16 for adults and $9 for seniors, students, and visitors with disabilities, with free admission every Sunday and for children under 16.

The museum, located at 144 West 125th Street in Harlem, will be open Wednesday through Sunday, with extended evening hours on Fridays and Saturdays.

For questions and tips, email Miranda.Levingston@Patch.com.